Emotional Intelligence

At first glance this may seem contrary to our instincts; after all we have been taught that as long as we get good grades in our classes and go to a good college, we will be successful in life. But if we look a little deeper we will recognize quickly that the reality is far different. We all know intelligent, academic high achievers who are not particularly happy or successful and others who may not have been academically gifted, but who enjoy their lives. The point here is that at Light Way we recognize the value of both.

Why Did We Put This First?

Quite simply put, emotional intelligence is first because it forms the foundation for all other intelligences to thrive. Research has shown unequivocally that a person's EQ (emotional intelligence quotient) is a more accurate predictor of future success than IQ or academic achievement. In 1996 Daniel Goleman wrote his groundbreaking book "Emotional Intelligence". Golesman's exhaustive research confirmed that success in life is based more on our ability to manage our emotions than on our intellectual capabilities and that a lack of success is more often than not due to our mismanagement of emotions.

What Is Emotional Intelligence?

In the following excerpt from "The HeartMath Solution" by Doc Childers and Howard Martin a couple of useful definitions are offered.

In the 1980's John Mayer, a University of New Hampshire psychologist, and Peter Salovey of Yale co-formulated a new theory of "emotional intelligence" that shapes the quality of our intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships. Mayer and Salovey's definition of emotional intelligence includes includes five domains:

1. knowing one's emotions;

2. managing one's emotions;

3. motivating oneself;

4. recognizing emotions in others;

5. and handling relationships.

Developing emotional intelligence involves the self-awareness of "becoming aware of both our mood and our thoughts about our mood."

Reuven Bar-On, a clinical psychologist and lecturer in medicine at the Tel Aviv University Medical School, coined the term "emotional quotient" or "EQ" in 1985. Bar-On devoted more than fifteen years of research to developing a formal psychological survey that aims to measure people's emotional intelligence. Based on his research and results, Bar-On summarized the qualities that contribute to emotional intelligence as follows:

It is thought that the more emotionally intelligent individuals are those

who are able to recognize and express their emotions;

who possess positive self regard and are able to actualize their potential capacities and lead fairly happy lives;

they are able to understand the way others feel and are capable of making and maintaining mutually satisfying and responsible interpersonal relationships without becoming dependent on others;

they are generally optimistic, flexible, realistic and are fairly successful in solving problems and coping with stress without losing control.

Why Is Emotional Intelligence Important?

In 1996 Daniel Goleman wrote his groundbreaking book "Emotional Intelligence". Golesman's exhaustive research confirmed that success in life is based more on our ability to manage our emotions than on our intellectual capabilities and that a lack of success is more often than not due to our mismanagement of emotions. His research helps explain why many individuals with high IQ falter in life while others with only a modest IQ do exceptionally well. According to Goleman the good news about EQ in that, unlike IQ it can be developed and increased throughout life.

For more information on EQ and how to develop it personally please visit: www.6seconds.org or read "Emotional Intelligence" by Daniel Goleman and "Developing Emotional Intelligence" by Linda Lantieri.

How Does A Light Way Home School Program Help Youth Develop Higher EQ?

We recommend a multi-pronged approach using assessment surveys from www.6seconds.org, HeartMath, mindfulness training, "BE" time, Kid Power(tm) and Sixth Sensory(tm) training. Put together these form a powerful set of tools that will prepare children for the challenges of living in the modern world.